Chess Clock
Tap your side after you move. Choose a time control below; increment is added after every move.
Common chess time controls
| Category | Typical controls | Game length |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet | 1+0, 2+1 | 2–4 minutes |
| Blitz | 3+0, 3+2, 5+0, 5+3 | 6–15 minutes |
| Rapid | 10+0, 10+5, 15+10 | 20–45 minutes |
| Classical | 30+0, 90+30 | 1–4 hours |
FIDE counts a game as rapid when each player has more than 10 and less than 60 minutes (time plus 60 × the increment), and as blitz at 10 minutes or less. The clock here is for over-the-board play with a friend, at a club or in a casual tournament.
Frequently asked questions
How do I use the online chess clock?
Choose a time control, put the phone between the players, and let Black tap first to start White’s clock. After each move, tap your own side: your clock stops, your increment is added and your opponent’s clock starts. On a laptop the space bar works too.
What does 5+3 mean?
Five minutes for each player plus a three-second increment: three seconds are added to your clock every time you complete a move. 3+2 is a common blitz control; 15+10 is a common rapid control.
What happens when time runs out?
The clock that reaches zero shows “Time out” and stops. Under the rules the player who ran out of time loses, unless the opponent has no way to checkmate, in which case the game is a draw.
Does it keep running if the screen turns off?
The clock is based on real time, so it stays correct when you come back, but keep the screen on during play so you can tap. Use Pause if you need to stop the game.